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Jerry Ray Parks
Jerry Ray Parks, age 81, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022, surrounded by his family in his home in Duncan. He was born June 28, 1941 in Frederick, Oklahoma to Clarence and Louise (Marshall) Parks. He graduated, with honors, from Frederick High School in 1961.
Services were held Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, Bethel Assembly, Duncan, under the direction of Whitt Funeral Home/Oakcrest Cremation Center.
Jerry courted the love of his life, Phyllis Upchurch, and they were married three weeks later; enjoying 61 years together. A groceryman by trade, he worked for Safeway prior to owning his own grocery stores, H&P Grocery, in Perry and Ponca City. He and Phyllis later moved to Bristow where they resided for 27 years before moving to Duncan to be closer to his children and grandchildren.
Jerry was an avid fisherman, expert gardener, loving husband, father, and grandfather. Jerry loved to laugh, sing his little “ditties,” and write humorous poetry for his family. Jerry and Phyllis loved traveling and enjoying the outdoors together.
He was preceded in death by his parents; Francis Hall (sister); Delbert Parks (brother); Lee Anne Beach (niece); Roger Parks (nephew); and Jimmy Parks (nephew).
Jerry is survived by his wife of 61 years, Phyllis; two children: Jeffery Parks and Christy Harlow; three grandchildren: Walker Hawkins, Morgan Curry, and Mikayla Thomas; three greatgrandchildren: Kinley Burk, Kennedy Curry, and Jensen Thomas; niece, Carla Dice; and numerous other nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to the nursing staff on the 2nd floor at Duncan Regional Hospital and Dawn with Chisholm Trail Hospice.
Online condolences can be made at www.whittfh.com.